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What is borax used for in metallurgy and glassmaking?
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boron group element
Modern version of the periodic table of the elements (printable).
In metallurgy and glassmaking, borax serves the following essential functions:
- Metallurgy: Borax acts as a solvent for metal-oxide slags, helping to remove impurities during the smelting process. Additionally, it is widely used as a flux in welding and soldering, where it functions by dissolving metallic oxides to promote wetting and prevent the reoxidation of surfaces during heating.1234
- Glassmaking: Borax is utilized as a key component in the production of glass and pottery glazes within the ceramics industry. While borax itself is a primary source, it is also closely related to the production of heat-resistant borosilicate glass, which is manufactured by mixing silica with boron oxide—a compound derived from the processing of boric acid.214